Advanced photocatalytic self-cleaning membrane for highly efficient oil-water separation using C/TiO2/SiO2 composite

Oil pollution poses severe threats to both ecosystems and human health. This study utilized electrospinning and carbonization processes to fabricate a SiO2-TiO2-C nanofiber membrane (STCNFM) exhibiting photocatalytic self-cleaning properties designed explicitly for oil-water separation. These membranes possess nanoscale rough structures, endowing them with superoleophilicity (0°) and hydrophobicity (138°). Addressing the limitations associated with traditional ceramic membranes, particularly in terms of stability and reproducibility, cyclic experiments confirm the significant stability and reproducibility of this composite membrane, ensuring reliable long-term applications for continuous oil-water separation. Leveraging the synergistic effect of TiO2 and the carbon fiber substrate, STCNFMs-5 demonstrate exceptional separation performance and notable self-cleaning capabilities. Following a 2-h exposure to ultraviolet light, the membrane's flux is restored to its original level. STCNFMs offer a promising solution for efficiently separating oil-water mixtures and emulsions, holding potential importance in water treatment and resource recovery endeavors.